Memorial Draws Near As No New Answers Emerge Ahoskie Man's Death

Ahoskie Police Chief Troy Fitzhugh told WITN News Friday there is no new information for release on the kidnapping and death of 33-year-old Brad Smithwick.

When asked about other media reports about the autopsy and cause of death, Fitzhugh said he did not release any of that information. The chief said the investigation is top priority, and he will not release any information that could jeopardize it.

Police say Smithwick was kidnapped October 4 outside his Ahoskie home by Kitty Hawk police officer Raymond Jedele. Jedele and Smithwick's ex-wife, Janet Harrell, have been charged in connection with his abduction. Smithwick's body was found October 9 in Chowan County.

Wednesday's story on memorial service

Family and friends of Brad Smithwick will gather Sunday to remember Smithwick, whose body was found October 9 in Chowan County.

Police say Smithwick was kidnapped October 4 outside his Ahoskie home by Kitty Hawk police officer Raymond Jedele. Jedele and Smithwick's ex-wife, Janet Harrell, have been charged in connection with his abduction.

The memorial service for Smithwick will be held Sunday at the Faith Alive Ministries in Chesapeake, Virginia (see below for map). Doors open at 3:00 pm and the service starts at 3:30 pm.

The church tells WITN News that a fund has been set up for Smithwick's two children. Donations can be made at any branch of the North Carolina State Employees Credit Union.

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Tuesday's story on body discovery

Authorities say a body found in southern Chowan County is believed to be a missing Ahoskie man.

A state wildlife officer found the body around 9:30 this morning near the Edenton Airport in a wooded area.

Ahoskie Police Chief Troy Fitzhugh says they believe the body is that of Brad Smithwick, who was abducted Thursday morning outside his home.

Police have charged two people in the case, Kitty Hawk police officer Raymond Jedele and Smithwicks ex-wife Janet Harrell. Jedelle has been charged with first degree kidnapping and had was arrested Friday, Harrell is charged with accessory after the fact.

Ahoskie police are not saying whether the two face any additional charges.

The body is being send to the state medical examiners office in Greenville for an autopsy.

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